‘We’re at war with Iran’s nuclear program’: US Vice President JD Vance

In a dramatic escalation of regional tensions, US Vice President JD Vance on Sunday, June 22, clarified that the United States is “not at war with Iran” but is targeting “Iran’s nuclear program,” which he said has been significantly set back by recent American airstrikes. The strikes, ordered by President Donald Trump, hit three major nuclear facilities—Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan—using bunker-busting bombs delivered by B-2 stealth bombers.President Trump described the operation as having “obliterated” Iran’s key nuclear infrastructure, aligning the US with Israel’s ongoing military campaign against Tehran. Vance, speaking on NBC’s Meet the Press, said, “It’s going to be many, many years before the Iranians are going to be able to develop a nuclear weapon.” He also accused Iran of failing to negotiate in good faith, which he said prompted the strikes.
In a separate interview with ABC News, Vance warned, “If the Iranians attack us, they’re going to be met with overwhelming force,” emphasising that the US had avoided civilian and non-nuclear military targets.
He added, “The diplomacy never was given a real chance by the Iranians,” and took a jab at Tehran’s military capabilities, saying, “Perhaps they should follow President Trump’s lead and give peace a chance.”Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a stern warning on Fox News regarding Iran’s potential move to close the Strait of Hormuz, calling it “economic suicide” and urging China to intervene diplomatically. “I encourage the Chinese government in Beijing to call them about that, because they heavily depend on the Straits of Hormuz for their oil,” Rubio said.

He also noted on CBS News that “there are no planned military operations right now against Iran—unless they mess around and they attack Americans or American interests.”

In a move that could jolt global energy markets, Iran’s parliament has approved a measure to close the Strait of Hormuz—a vital maritime chokepoint through which nearly 20% of the world’s oil supply flows—following US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.

State-run Press TV reported on Sunday (June 22) that the proposal reflects broad consensus within the Iranian legislature, though the final decision lies with the Supreme National Security Council.

Iran has condemned the US strikes as a “grave violation of international law,” with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi calling the attacks “brutal military aggression” and warning of consequences. Tehran has vowed to defend its sovereignty and is seeking urgent consultations with Russia amid fears of further escalation.